Prevalence of Online Child Pornography and Applicable Laws in India

Abstract

With the increasing use of Internet technology, online child pornography has taken a heap over the years. The figures published by Interpol which say that more than 24 lakh online child abuse are reported in the last 3 years in India clearly show the widespread of online child abuse. Although child pornography is not a new crime, with quick and easy access to the Internet, it has become easier to commit and hunt and make children fall prey to child pornography. Children use the Internet for education, entertainment, social interactions, etc. and end up spending the majority of their time on various Internet platforms. Hence, it is the need of the hour to protect children from the victim of online child pornography. This can be done with a strict legislative framework, accountability of social media platforms, government and LEAs preventive measures, a robust reporting mechanism and awareness among parents, schools and children. Hence collaborative efforts are called for. This chapter discusses the prevalence of online child pornography in India. The relevant provisions under different laws in India that touches on the aspect of online child pornography are comprehensively laid down in the chapter. It also examined the reasons behind increasing cases of online child pornography in India and concluded by suggesting recommendations to curb the issue of online child pornography.